You can definately find friends in the lifestyle. MrVan and I are still "newbies" and have been doing this since January. When we got into the lifestyle we knew we what we wanted but not sure how comfortable with each stage of the lifestyle we would be and we also knew that we wanted to make friends and not just a notch on the headboard so to speak. We wanted to find those that we could hang out with in and out of the bed and become friends with. And we have been pretty lucky so far with everyone that we have met.
Yes some are still around and things are really great, we have also continued to meet new ones that we are also finding in them the same friendship's that we are looking for and with the benefits of the lifestyle. facelick
The only thing I can say is although you make friends in the lifestyle, keep in mind that their ideas of what they are looking for may be different or may change over time, and you just have to say to yourself "it just wasn't meant to be" and move on. We have encountered that already and it was a very hard thing for us to go through but with everyone's advise on the board we were able to have a better understanding.
As someone else mentioned on another post on this board, is to take baby steps. Find what your comfort level is starting out. If it isn't full swap just yet try doing soft swap and then once you feel more comfortable then work up to full swap.
Trust me, you find a good couple that can be patient and understanding of what your going through, it will all work out and the friendship will be one that you will remember for a very long time no matter what the outcome.
Good luck and keep us posted! You have come to the right place for the advise your looking for.
MrsVan